What is inductive effect in organic chemistry?

Answer 1

The inductive effect is when atoms within molecules donate some of their charge throughout the molecule. For example, a strongly electron withdrawing group, such as a nitro group (NO2) or a carbonyl (CO), will draw electrons away from the rest of the molecule, making other atoms more positive. An electron donating group, such as a methoxide (OCH3) or just a methyl group (CH3) will donate their charges to other atoms within that molecule. A carbon with a methoxide group next to it will be delta positive (have a relative positive charge compared with a neutral carbon atom), whereas a carbon with a carbonyl next to it will be delta minus (have a relative negative charge compared with a neutral carbon atom).

Answer 2

Inductive effect is the transmission of electronic effects through sigma bonds in a molecule due to differences in electronegativity of atoms. It leads to the polarization of a covalent bond, resulting in the distribution of electron density along the carbon chain. This effect influences the reactivity and stability of organic compounds, particularly in determining the strength of acids and bases.